Directions to follow
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or a light greasing.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, 1 cup of sugar, two eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until well blended.
- Add in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Gently stir just until combined—overmixing can lead to denser brownies.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- For the cheesecake layer, mix the cream cheese, 1/4 cup of sugar, 1 egg, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla in a separate bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Spoon dollops of the cheesecake mixture atop the brownie batter and use a butter knife to swirl them gently together.
- Warm the blackberry preserves briefly in the microwave, then drizzle over the cheesecake layer and swirl with a knife for a marbled effect.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- Let cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. If desired, garnish with fresh blackberries for an extra touch.
Best ways to enjoy it
To elevate your Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies experience, consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Pair it with a steaming cup of coffee or a refreshing scoop of sorbet for a delightful contrast. For an added touch, drizzle some chocolate sauce on top and sprinkle a few crushed nuts for texture.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds until warmed through.
Helpful cooking tips
- Don’t overmix: This is key for achieving that perfect brownie texture. Just mix until ingredients are combined.
- Room temperature ingredients: Ingredients mix better and lead to a smoother cheesecake layer when they’re at room temperature.
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for the best flavor—your brownies will thank you!
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Try adding a splash of almond extract to the cheesecake mixture for a nutty flavor, or sprinkle some crushed graham crackers on top before baking for a fun twist. You can also swap out blackberries for other fruits like raspberries or strawberries—feel free to get creative!
FAQs
How long does it take to make these brownies?
It generally takes about 15 to 20 minutes to prepare the ingredients and about 30 to 35 minutes for baking, making this recipe a quick option for dessert.
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Absolutely! They can be prepared a day in advance and stored in an airtight container, making them perfect for gatherings or events.
Are there any substitutions I can make in the ingredients?
Yes! For a gluten-free version, consider using almond flour or a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. You can also use vegan cream cheese and aquafaba as a substitute for egg for a dairy-free and egg-free version.
Now that you’ve got the scoop on these delicious Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies, what are you waiting for? Dive into your kitchen and treat yourself to this irresistible dessert! Don’t forget to share with loved ones—or keep them all for yourself!
